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Letter: Help for domestic violence

By Ginger Hallbeck, Olivia on Oct 5, 2009 at 12:00 a.m.

I would like to remind Willmar and other area residents to support Shelter House in Willmar which extends emergency shelter and community advocacy to domestic violence victims in an 18-county area in southwestern Minnesota.

One way to do this is to attend the annual "Make a Difference" dinner and entertainment fundraiser event on Dec. 4 at Max's Grill in Olivia.

Nobody ever expects to succumb to the disease of domestic violence. But like the flu, everyone is susceptible. It comes from being human with the normal human frailties. It can sometimes be deadly, but the best defense lies in prevention. Vaccines are available.

No one should be afraid in their own home, of their own loved ones. No one should be belittled, bullied or ridiculed. It is not a parent's right to harm their children, either physically or emotionally. Or a spouse's right to control the other. Domestic violence not only hurts; it maims and kills. Don't be a victim. Don't let anyone you know be a victim. The only shame is for domestic violence ever to occur. Call 320-235-0962 or 320-523-1015, where a friendly voice will direct you to the help you need. In the event of crisis, call 1-866-223-1111. It might be a good idea to get a flu shot as well.